Spain's housing affordability crisis has worsened, according to idealista’s Q1 2025 report. The financial burden on families for renting or buying continues to rise, exceeding expert-recommended thresholds.
Renting: Emergency situation in major cities
National average: 36% of household income goes to rent (+1 point year-on-year).
Most affected cities:
- Barcelona (46%), Palma (41%), Málaga (40%), Valencia (39%), Madrid (38%).
- In Alicante, Segovia, and Las Palmas, the burden exceeds 30%.
- Biggest increases: Segovia (+4 points), Zamora and Barcelona (+3 points).
- Crisis provinces: Málaga (52%), Balearic Islands (47%), Barcelona (43%).
Buying a home: Less pressure, but an upward trend
National average: 23% of income (+1 point year-on-year).
Exceptions: In Palma (41%) and San Sebastián (36%), buying is more expensive than renting.
High burden: Madrid (35%), Málaga (35%).
Trends: Burden decreased in 26 cities (e.g. Girona, Granada: -3 points), but rose in Madrid, Alicante, and Málaga.
Expert opinion
Francisco Iñareta, spokesperson for idealista:
"Renting is in absolute crisis: lack of supply, uncontrolled prices, and fierce competition. This pushes families to the buying market, where supply is also limited. Bold action is needed to stabilize the market."
Reasons for rising burden
- Housing shortage and rising prices
- High interest rates (for buying) and demand in tourist areas and capitals
Cities with the lowest burden
Renting: Ciudad Real (17%), Jaén and Teruel (19%)
Buying: Jaén (10%), Teruel and Palencia (12%)
The gap between renting and buying is widening, with the rental market in a critical state. Without measures to increase supply and regulate prices, social inequality will continue to grow.